Ryde Social Heritage Group research the social history of the citizens of Ryde, Isle of Wight. Documenting their lives, businesses and burial transcriptions.
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On the Buses!

Bristol LD6G Lodekka KDL410 56 seater in Southern Vectis use 1956
Bristol LD6G Lodekka KDL410 56 seater in Southern Vectis use 1956

Regular bus users on the Ryde-Newport route will no doubt be aware of the hysterical fare charged for completing the final stage of that journey. The cost of staying on the bus at Coppins Bridge, East Street to Newport Bus Station, a journey of half a minute when the traffic lights are green is 3p! Little wonder the bus nearly empties at East Street.

The same applies on the return journey. Boarding the bus at County Hall instead of the Bus Station saves the passenger 3p. On the round trip that amounts to 1/2d in proper money. Who is the mathematical genius that sets these fares? One can only assume that Southern Vectis is trying to discourage the public from using the Bus Station. Perhaps they want to preserve it as a mausoleum. If so, they should start by putting their accountants in it.

Source: Wight Life April/May 1974
Image: Bristol LD6G Lodekka KDL410 56 seater in SV use 1956 – late 1970s seen here in Newport Bus station. Courtesy of Steve Palmer & IWFHS website